Barcelona i Real Madrid They renew their rivalry this weekend in another highly anticipated edition of the Classic, with the two Spanish giants looking to claim bragging rights at the start of the season.
The rivalry has produced some memorable encounters in recent seasons, with both clubs boasting squads full of world-class talent.
From Barcelona’s exciting young stars to Madrid’s established superstars, there is no shortage of quality on either side.
But who would make the starting eleven if the two teams were combined?
We have selected our strongest possible line-up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, taking into account form and availability ahead of the clash.
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid)
Thibaut Courtois remains one of the safest pairs of hands in world football, and the Belgian is ahead of Barcelona’s Joan Garcia.
The 34-year-old has been a key figure for Madrid since arriving from Chelsea in 2018, producing countless important saves in some of the club’s biggest games.
Right wing: Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)
Federico Valverde may be more comfortable in midfield, but his versatility makes him an excellent right-back option.
The Uruguayan international has regularly occupied Madrid’s defence, combining his great motor with defensive discipline and an ability to go forward with possession.
With Barcelona’s Jules Kounde battling an ankle injury, Valverde earns his place in the combined eleven.
Central defense: Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona)
At just 19 years old, Pau Cubarsi has already established himself as one of the most promising central players in European football.
The Barcelona Academy graduate has remarkable composure for his age, especially when playing from the back under pressure.
Central defender: Ibrahima Konate (Real Madrid)
Cubarsi’s partner is Ibrahima Konate, whose physical presence and experience provide an excellent balance alongside the young Spaniard.
The former Liverpool defender brings pace, strength and aerial dominance to Madrid’s back line, qualities that are particularly valuable when facing the type of attack that Barcelona have.
Left wing: Marc Cucurella (Real Madrid)
Marc Cucurella fills the left-back position following his move to Real Madrid, having become one of the most reliable defenders in Europe during his time at Chelsea.
His Premier League experience and understanding of Spanish football make him a valuable addition to Madrid’s squad, while his ability to operate in a variety of defensive roles gives him an advantage in this combined XI.
Midfield: Rodri (Barcelona)
Few players in world football can control a match like Rodri, making the Barcelona midfielder an automatic selection.
His ability to dictate the pace, break up opposition attacks and distribute possession makes him the ideal foundation for this midfield.
Having established himself as one of the most outstanding midfielders in the world during his time at Manchester City, Rodri brings experience and authority to the Barcelona engine room.
Midfield: Pedri (Barcelona)
Next to Rodri is Pedri, giving Barcelona full control of the central midfield positions in our combined XI.
The 23-year-old is among the most technically gifted players in Europe, able to escape pressure in tight spaces and collect passes that few others can see.
His understanding of space and ability to link midfield with attack are crucial to Barcelona’s style, while his partnership with Rodri provides excellent balance.
Right wing: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Lamine Yamal is arguably the most exciting young footballer on the planet, and his inclusion on the right wing requires little debate.
Still only 19, the Spain international has already established himself as Barcelona’s most dangerous attacking outlet, regularly tormenting defenders with his tight control, quick feet and ability to cut inside on the left foot.
Yamal has started the League campaign in exceptional fashion, registering eight goals and six assists in Barcelona’s first nine League games.
Attacking midfield: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
Jude Bellingham gets the nod in the No.10 role, adding another world-class talent to an already formidable midfield.
Bellingham’s versatility allows him to influence games in a number of positions, but operating behind the striker gives him the freedom to create chances and contribute goals.
With Rodri and Pedri providing the platform behind him, the 23-year-old would have plenty of opportunities to make an impact in the final third.
Left winger: Anthony Gordon (Barcelona)
Anthony Gordon completes the attacking midfield trio, earning his place ahead of Madrid’s other wide options.
The England international joined Barcelona from Newcastle United in the summer and has quickly become an important part of Flick’s plans.
With Vinicius Junior suspended for Sunday’s game, Gordon fills in on the left and would provide an interesting contrast to Yamal’s creativity on the opposite flank.
Forward: Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
Leading the way is Kylian Mbappe, who remains one of the most feared strikers in world football.
The Frenchman has been in excellent form this season, scoring nine goals in his first nine La Liga appearances and continuing to show why Madrid invested so much in bringing him to the Bernabeu.
Mbappé also scored twice in Madrid’s 4-1 win over Sevilla last weekend, ensuring he will go into the Clásico full of confidence.
